Students take off on aviation discovery

Students at South Essex College gained a unique insight in to the world of modern commercial aviation during a visit to the Emirates Aviation Experience in London.

The students, who are studying on the aviation course at the college’s Southend campus, had the opportunity to take to the skies on board an Airbus A380 or Boeing 777 flight simulator.

As well as the simulator experience, the students also explored an interactive exhibition where they built parts of aeroplane engines. They also took part in Q&A sessions with industry employees and found out about jobs available in the sector and what qualifications are needed.

They also learnt about the logistics surrounding modern air travel including flight turnarounds and how flight plans are put together.

Karen Doran, aviation tutor, said it was a fantastic experience for the students.

She said: “The students were able to put a lot of what they had learnt in the classroom into practice which was an invaluable experience.

“The day certainly whet their appetite for pursuing one of the many careers in the aviation industry or as cabin crew members.”

To find out more about aviation courses at the college, visit www.southessex.ac.uk